As WP's senior editor, I edit review and preview articles, attempt to keep up with the frantic pace of Rainier's news posts, and keep our reviewers on deadline, which is akin to herding cats. When I have a moment to myself and don't have my nose in a book, I like to play action/RPG, adventure and platforming games.

Advertising

In a world where graffiti has been banned and freedom of expression has been suppressed by a tyrannical city government, an unlikely hero rises to win back his neighbourhood and become an urban legend of the city of New Radius. Play as Trane, a "toy" (beginner) graffiti artist with the street-smarts, athletic prowess and vision necessary to become an "All City King," the most reputable of all graffiti artists. The sport of graffiti flows through his veins as he risks his life navigating vertical landscapes while battling rival crews, a corrupt Mayor and the city's Civil Conduct Keepers (CCK) all in an effort to reach the sweet spots of New Radius where a well-placed tag brings respect and reputation.

Known for his evocative and compelling lyrics, Kweli has recently released the critically acclaimed The Beautiful Struggle (2004) album and has toured with renowned artists and producers such as Mos Def, Kanye West, Jay-Z and Beastie Boys. As Trane, Kweli is providing the voice for an outcast and rebel determined to establish his credibility in the politically oppressive city of New Radius, but who ultimately becomes the unlikely leader of an urban revolution.

"Because a video game has a hip-hop soundtrack doesn't automatically make it a true representation of urban life. The urban reality is about making your voice heard and with Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure we're looking to authentically capture that daily challenge in a highly engaging manner," said Marc Ecko, Executive Creative Director for Getting Up. "There is no better artist to help challenge the video game status quo and personify Trane than Talib, and we are excited to be adding his respected talent to our video game."

The story's "Get IN, Get UP and Get OUT" gameplay mechanic offers players a unique combination of skills, including the sneak and street fighting abilities needed to battle through the city's rough streets and Get IN restricted areas; the dexterity and agility to scale any object in order to Get UP graffiti tags and spread the message of rebellion; and the ingenuity to evade, escape and Get OUT.

Developed by The Collective, Getting Up: Contents Under Pressure is scheduled for release in September 2005 for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system.